Are you ready to embark on a magical journey to Disney World in Orlando? Before you pack your bags and head to the happiest place on earth, it’s essential to know the ins and outs of traveling to the closest airport to Disney World.
Let’s go through some expert tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free airport experience on your way to Disney World. From the best times to fly to Orlando to packing hacks and navigating security with ease, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready to make your trip as seamless as possible with these insider tips.
Closest Airport to Disney World
Flying to Disney World? Let’s dive into the specifics of the closest airport you’ll be landing at. This is how to make your journey to the magical destination as effortless as possible.
The closest airport to Disney World is Orlando International Airport, MCO.
- Disney is located approximately 17-20 miles away from the airport, which translates to a 20-25 minute drive.
- The airport provides services for over 35 airlines, including American, Southwest, JetBlue, Spirit, United, Frontier, Delta, and major international carriers. Passengers can benefit from nonstop flights to over 150 domestic and international cities.
- Orlando International Airport consists of three terminals (A, B, and C). They offer a variety of amenities such as restaurants, shops, free Wi-Fi, ATMs, and even a 3000-gallon aquarium.
- Both short-term and long-term parking options are available and conveniently connected to the terminals.
- The airport’s address is 1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827.
- For inquiries or assistance, you can contact the airport at (407) 825-2001.
Traveling to Disney World via Plane
Traveling to Disney World via plane is a convenient option for visitors from farther away. With several major airports nearby, flying into Orlando is a popular choice.
Ready to learn more about the ins and outs of traveling to Disney World by plane? Let’s start with everything you need to know about Orlando International Airport.
All About MCO (Orlando International Airport)
Orlando International Airport, also known as MCO, is the primary airport serving the Orlando area. It is the closest airport to Disney World. This bustling airport sees millions of travelers pass through each year. Making it a hub of activity with a wide range of amenities and services available for visitors.
From restaurants and shops to rental car services and transportation options, MCO is well-equipped to handle the influx of tourists heading to the most magical place on Earth.
When planning your trip to Disney World, flying into Orlando International Airport can be a seamless and stress-free experience. With its convenient location and numerous airline options, MCO makes it easier to get to the happiest place on Earth.
Plus, with the airport’s close proximity to the theme parks, you’ll be just a short ride away from beginning your magical vacation.
MCO Airlines
Orlando International Airport is known to many as the gateway to the magic of Disney World and Universal Studios. It is also a bustling hub for numerous airlines, connecting travelers to destinations all around the world.
From budget-friendly carriers to luxurious first-class options, the selection of airlines operating at this airport is vast and diverse. This ensures that every traveler can find the perfect fit for their needs.
Among the list of airlines, there are a few that stand out for their exceptional service, innovative offerings, and unique experiences.
For those looking for more budget-friendly options, Southwest Airlines is a popular choice, as is JetBlue Airlines.
Best Times to Fly to Orlando
When planning your trip to Disney World, remember that the best times to fly to Orlando can vary depending on your priorities. It could be weather, theme park crowd levels, or flight prices.
Generally, the months of January, February, and September tend to be fewer crowded. This is for both the airport and the theme parks, making them ideal times to fly in. Additionally, flying mid-week rather than on weekends can also help avoid the busiest travel times.
By choosing the right time to fly, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable start to your Disney World adventure.
I would like to arrive at MCO early in the afternoon. I prefer to get to my Disney Hotel when my room is ready so I can be comfortable right away. And, of course, with children, it’s nice to have a place to reset after traveling.
Navigating Security with Ease
Once you’ve cleared security at Orlando International Airport, it’s time to focus on the next step in your Disney World adventure.
Navigating through airport security can be a daunting and stressful experience for many travelers. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. However, understanding the reasoning behind these measures and following a few simple tips can make the process much smoother.
First and foremost, it’s important to remember that airport security measures are in place for our safety. While we may grumble about taking off our shoes or going through multiple security checkpoints, it’s all in the name of protecting ourselves and our fellow passengers.
Experts recommend arriving at the airport at least two hours before your departure time. This allows for enough time to get through security.
Wear minimal jewelry and avoid bulky outerwear, which can help save time and avoid setting off metal detectors. It’s also recommended to pack any toiletries or liquids in a clear plastic bag. Have them easily accessible, as this can save time and hassle during the security screening.
While going through airport security may not be the most enjoyable part of traveling, it’s part of keeping safe.
Packing Hacks for Traveling to Disney World
When traveling to Disney World, packing smartly can help make your trip even more enjoyable. Consider rolling your clothes instead of folding them to save space in your suitcase and prevent wrinkles.
Utilize travel-sized containers for toiletries and invest in a lightweight, versatile wardrobe to mix and match outfits. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated in the Florida heat. By packing efficiently, you’ll be able to focus on the magic of Disney World without worrying about cumbersome luggage.
This strategic packing approach will also help you breeze through the airport without any hiccups, ensuring a stress-free start to your Disney World adventure.
Avoiding Long Lines at the Airport
To avoid long lines at the airport, consider checking in online before your arrival to speed up the process at the check-in counter. Additionally, try to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow for any unexpected delays. Utilize TSA PreCheck or Global Entry if you have it to expedite the security screening process. By being prepared and proactive, you can minimize wait times and ensure a smooth journey to the closest airport to Disney World Orlando.
This strategic approach to airport navigation will set you up for a stress-free start to your Disney World adventure as you embark on your magical journey.
Is MCO or SFB closer to Disney?
When considering the closest airport to Disney World, it’s essential to take into account the proximity of both Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) to the Walt Disney World Resort. While both airports serve the Orlando area, MCO is generally closer to Walt Disney World compared to SFB. The distance from MCO to Disney World is approximately 22 miles, while the distance from SFB to Disney World is around 50 miles. Therefore, MCO is the closest option in terms of travel time to reach the magical world of Disney.
How Far Away Is Disney from Orlando Airport?
When planning a trip to Disney World, many visitors want to know how far away the resort is from the closest airport. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary airport serving the Orlando area and is the closest major airport to Walt Disney World Resort. The distance between Orlando International Airport and Disney World is approximately 20 miles, which typically translates to a 25-30 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. It’s important to consider transportation options in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey from the airport to the magical world of Disney.
Getting Between MCO and Walt Disney World
If you’re flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO) and need to get to Walt Disney World, there are several transportation options to consider. From rental cars and ride-sharing services to shuttle buses and private transfers, travelers have various choices for reaching the magical world of Disney from the airport. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each option to help you decide on the best transportation method for your journey.
Uber/Lyft: Both of these rideshare companies can provide the easiest way to get any where when you are in Orlando. Right from an app on your phone. The average fare between MCO and Disney World is $35-$55.
It allows direct transportation with no stops, but be mindful of potential surge pricing during peak times.
Shuttle Bus: Shared transit services like Mears Connect offer scheduled routes from MCO to Disney hotels. You can book ahead online. It’s a more economical option at around $32/adult and $26/child round trip. Not only are there multiple stops and longer overall travel times to consider, but the price is also higher if you are more than one person.
Rental Car: Renting a car is convenient for those wanting flexibility and the ability to take day trips near Disney. Be aware of the added cost of $400+ per week for rental and parking fees. It’s important to note that a rental car may not be necessary for transportation within Disney World.
Private Car Service: Luxury sedans, vans, and SUVs provide privacy and convenience, making them ideal for large groups and special occasions. However, the downside is the higher cost of $80-$150 per trip.
Taxi: Traditional cab services are available 24/7 at MCO taxi stands, offering convenience at a premium of around $70 per trip.
Driving Directions: If you choose to drive, the best routes are via FL-417 Toll S or FL-528 W/FL-528 Toll W. Use Google Maps or Apple Maps to navigate from MCO to your Disney hotel, and expect to pay tolls on portions of virtually any route between MCO and WDW.
Can you shuttle from the airport to Disney World?
If you’re flying into Orlando for your magical Disney vacation, you’ll be pleased to know that there are various shuttle options available to take you directly from the airport to Disney World. Several shuttle companies provide reliable and convenient transportation services from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to the Disney World resort area. These shuttles offer a hassle-free way to begin your Disney adventure without the worry of navigating unfamiliar roads or arranging private transportation.
Most shuttle services offer comfortable and spacious vehicles, making them suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers. Additionally, some shuttles may provide door-to-door service, ensuring you are dropped off directly at your Disney World accommodation. Be sure to check the shuttle company’s schedule and make reservations in advance to secure your spot and guarantee a smooth start to your Disney World experience.
Getting from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Disney World offers various transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Historical Airport at Disney World
The historical airport at Disney World, also known as the Lake Buena Vista STOLport, was a small airfield located near the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. It was primarily used for short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft and provided convenient air access to the resort for guests and executives. The airport was in operation from 1971 to 1982 and played a significant role in the early years of the Walt Disney World Resort.
The STOLport featured a single asphalt runway and a small terminal building. It was designed to accommodate small commuter planes and private aircraft, offering a convenient and direct way for visitors to access the resort. The airport was situated in close proximity to the Magic Kingdom theme park, providing a unique and memorable arrival experience for guests.
However, with the expansion of Orlando International Airport and the growth of the air travel industry in central Florida, the need for the STOLport diminished. As a result, the airport ceased operations in 1982, and the land was eventually repurposed for other developments within the Walt Disney World Resort.
Although the Lake Buena Vista STOLport is no longer in existence, it holds a special place in the history of Disney World, reminding us of the resort’s innovative approach to guest transportation and accessibility.
Navigating the journey to Disney World Orlando can be stress-free and enjoyable with the right airport tips in hand. From choosing the closest airport to Orlando International Airport to packing hacks and avoiding long lines, you can ensure a seamless experience. By implementing these expert strategies, you can make your trip to Disney World as magical as the destination itself. So, start planning, pack your bags, and get ready for a vacation filled with unforgettable memories. Remember, the key to a smooth airport experience is in your hands. Safe travels!